- Brayden's Pirate - Click on the image to see a short and speedy video of the making of this Mixed-media Collage.

I have a few pen-pals, all under the age of 12. Today I am heading out to the post office to buy stamps for my joy mailing needs. I love this part of my tia role!

When I send something out I imagine the wonder of receiving a personally addressed piece of mail reflected in their little faces. And when I receive something - usually a lop-sided envelope stuffed with a too-large piece of paper, folded laboriously - I tear it open to reveal my treasure.

Joy Mail Update:

Yesterday I got this pic from Erin acknowledging receipt of the picture. The message was brief; the mail had just arrived ... "and he is already working on his masterpiece to send back to you." Mission accomplished!